Bungeoppang is a beloved fish-shaped pastry that is a quintessential Korean winter street food. Despite its name, it contains no actual fish; the "fish" refers solely to its distinctive mold. It features a crispy, golden-brown exterior and a soft, chewy interior, traditionally filled with sweet red bean paste. Modern variations also offer popular fillings such as custard cream, chocolate, or sweet potato, making it a delightful, comforting, and visually appealing treat, especially popular when the weather turns cold.
Key Information
Main Ingredients: Wheat flour, baking powder, sugar, egg, water or milk (for the batter); sweet red bean paste (traditional), custard cream, chocolate, or sweet potato for fillings. Cooked in a specialized fish-shaped griddle.
Side Dishes: Not typically served with savory side dishes, as it functions as a standalone sweet snack or dessert.
Pairing Beverages: Hot coffee, hot chocolate, milk, traditional Korean teas (e.g., green tea or barley tea), or even a cold soda for a refreshing contrast.
Enjoyment Tips
Enjoy fresh off the griddle and piping hot for the best crispy-chewy texture and warm, gooey filling.
Be cautious when taking the first bite, as the internal filling can be extremely hot.
If available, try different filling flavors to discover your personal favorite.
It serves as a perfect warming snack on a cold day, offering both comfort and satisfaction.
Often sold in economical sets of 2, 3, or more, making it ideal for sharing with friends or family.
Related Foods & Dining
Derivatives: Mini Bungeoppang (smaller versions), Bungeoppang Ice Cream (where the fish-shaped pastry serves as a cone for soft-serve ice cream with various toppings), and occasionally savory Bungeoppang (less common, with fillings like japchae or pizza-style ingredients).
Similar Foods: Taiyaki (Japan - a very similar fish-shaped pastry, often considered its direct counterpart), Waffles (Global), Hotteok (Korean sweet pancake), Gyeranppang (Korean egg bread).
Restaurant Type: Primarily found at street food stalls, traditional markets, and occasionally in convenience stores (pre-packaged and reheated).
Best Time to Eat: Snack, dessert, particularly popular during the colder months of autumn and winter.
Price & Preferences
Price per person: $1-$3 (this price often covers 2-3 pieces of Bungeoppang)
Foreigner Preference: ★★★★★★★★★★ (10/10) - Exceptionally popular among visitors due to its unique appearance, comforting warmth, and delicious sweet taste.
Spiciness: ★☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆ (0/10)
Saltiness: ★★☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆ (2/10) - Minimal, usually just a small amount in the batter to balance the sweetness.
Sweetness: ★★★★★★★★★☆ (9/10) - Predominantly a sweet snack, especially with traditional red bean or custard fillings.
Top 5 Locations in Seoul (Foreigner Preference for Street Food)
(Bungeoppang is almost exclusively found at street food stalls, especially during cooler months. These are general areas known for vibrant street food scenes.)
Myeongdong Street (Street Food Stalls): Myeongdong-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul (Especially abundant with vendors in winter).
Gwangjang Market (Food Stalls): 88 Changgyeonggung-ro, Jongno 4(sa)-ga, Jongno-gu, Seoul.
Hongdae Street (Various Vendors): Eoulmadang-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul (Around the Hongik University Station area).
Namdaemun Market (Food Stalls): 21 Namdaemunsijang 4-gil, Jung-gu, Seoul.
Subway Station Exits (Seasonal Vendors): Various subway station exits across Seoul will have vendors, particularly when the weather turns cold. (No single specific address, but a common sight during the season).
Comments
Post a Comment